The unsettled period of wet weather is predicted to continue across parts of the South West this afternoon, with the Flood Forecasting Centre predicting thunderstorms.

Due to the unsettled nature of the storms, it is difficult to predict the exact locations that might be affected at this stage, and the Environment Agency is urging home owners to be aware of the risk of localised surface water flooding, and possibly flooding from some of the smaller water courses.

Further showers are predicated on Saturday, but not as heavy, with less risk of rain on Sunday.

There is a possibility of further alerts and warnings later today with the risk of further rainfall.

The Environment Agency’s Mark Russell said: “We advise everyone to remain prepared for further heavy rainfall across the whole of the South West this afternoon and this evening.

“At the moment we can’t be specific about where this rain might hit but we urge people to check the Environment Agency website for the latest situation and to sign up to receive flood warnings.”

The Agency says its teams have been mobilised across the South West to check on flood defences, clear any river blockages and closely monitor river levels. These teams have been working around the clock to reduce the risk of flooding, and will be out in force again over the coming days.

People are warned not to drive or walk through flood water.

Those in flood risk areas should sign up to the Environment Agency’s free flood warning system – the most immediate and localised source of information on flooding – by calling 0845 988 1188 or visiting www.environment-agency.gov.uk/flood.

The Environment Agency updates its flood guidance every 15 minutes on its website at http://www.environment-agency.gov.uk/homeandleisure/floods/31618.aspx and you can follow the Environment Agency on Twitter at @EnvAgencySW.

Met Office weather forecasts and warnings can be found at http://www.metoffice.gov.uk/ and you can follow the Met Office on Twitter at @metoffice and Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/metoffice.